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Forced to purchase "Data Plan" contact the CEO

Like so many on here, I too do not think we should be forced to purchase a Data Plan.

I have contacted C S but have had no satisfaction. I have also Google the " Verizon wireless CEO" his name is Lowell McAdam, President and CEO. At the bottom of the page after googling him there is a spot that says contact him so I did. Today I got a call from a lady at the Corporate office. so they did get the E-mail. Was informed that they have received many concerns. but it did not sound like any changes were in the works. Maybe if they get enough dissatisfied customers they will correct things. After all we are the customers and without us they will not have a company.

Comments

krafft34

As for contacting the CEO of a multibillion dollar company over a company policy he most likely had a huuuuuge hand in, I'm not sure thats the best idea. No one is making you get a phone that requires internet. You are the one that picked the phone, it is just a feature that is used to help you best use the phone for what it was intended for. It's like buying a MP3 player and not wanting to use it for music or buying a Ferrari and getting mad at the insurance company for making you pay $400 a month for insurance because it goes fast. "Well I don't want to go fast in this Ferrari, I just like it." Well they would say too bad as well. You have to match your needs to a phone that fits those needs. Obviously if you are complaining about a feature that helps make that phone what it is, then you are picking the wrong phone!

caesar772

People are choosing these phones because they are good texting phones. They are not good for browsing the web. Worked fine for years without the data plan. This is the trend our country is adopting with the "sharing of wealth". Because of a few that don't know how to block data, it's Verizon's excuse to hammer us. Counting down the months to leave...

blackbull94

Yes, I would have to agree with you on this issue. This is not the only issue I have with them. They forced me into a 1400 minute plan from 700 minute plan. If you don't get the 1400 minute plan they charge you with every known fee they can find. I use around 1000 minutes a month, I'm just curious to what I'm supposed to do with the other 400 minutes I don't use? Well I know AT&T has roll over and their plans come a lot closer to what I need instead of a bunch of waste. We went in to upgrade a phone, and they told us that we would have to get a data plan. This is where I got a little upset with the company as a hole, not the employee working, but at the corporation and their decision making. We looked at the phones that didn't have data plans and it was more of a down grade instead of an up grade. The phones didn't have the same features as ours and I don't think the company looked at the reviews from customers, because if they would have they would have realized that they where bad.... You push this on us to go forward with getting up grades to these great $400 phones that will be very quickly out dated. We have a broadband USB card that I pay $60 a month for with two laptops. Why do I need these great data plan for? We take are laptops everywhere. I know that not everyone has the money to pay for services that are not needed like your great data plan. Me and many other customers do though, and now you seem to think you can force us into this. We should have the option to get the phone we like with certain features and not use the others on the phone. As far as your phones I have had over $2,000 worth of phones at one time in a box ready to send back, due to malfunctioning. I have never gotten anything that I have not had to send back due to glitches or other issues had happened through no fault of my own. I would hate to see the pile of plastic that is returned to you due to similar problems. Then I had to use my great insurance to get the same thing. It's like a rotation. Why do I still continue to deal with these issues, with this multi billion dollar company, that corners their customers into what the company wants? The other thing, these contracts are crazy too. Anytime you do anything to your account it renews. Why? Then you have like four or five contracts going on. This is poorly ran for the consumers..... I would strongly suggest that you look over the companies that you plan to do cell phone business with please.

blackbull94

I understand what you are saying to a certain extent, but as I was looking into these "simple feature" phones, there are only three with a full keypad, which most people want these days, and they don't come with video capabilities. I think that anyone with kids would agree that a phone with video capabilities is a wonderful feature to have on your phone. You never know when children are going to do something adorable and who carries their camcorders or cameras with them everywhere? On the other had most people do carry their phones with them everywhere. I just don't understand why just because a phone has the capabilities to do certain things that we should automatically be charged for it. Even the Blackberry with WIFI you have to purchase a data plan for. What exactly is the point in that? Either get rid of the fact that it has WIFI or don't charge people for the data plan. The whole purpose of WIFI is that if there is WIFI access you can use the internet. My Ipod touch has WIFI and I don't have to pay a monthly data charge for that. If there is internet I can use it and if not than I don't get on the internet. What if people don't want the features right now but may in the future. The way things are set up now, if you don't want to be charged with data plans you have to buy a cheap crappy phone that doesn't even record video, and then if you get a job where you're on the go all the time and decide then that you do want the features, you would have to buy a whole new phone. I just feel that it is easier for all consumers to have the choice in the matter.

Herne

Great....I have 3 phones to chose from at my local store. All of them flip phones.

I guess I should be so greatful for such an extensive choice.

kylek14

ive already contactec Mr. McAdam, specifically pointing him to the multiple thread of 3+ pages of complaints and giving him company suggestions. For all of this i have not gotten anything telling me he read it or any of that.

alepata

I just sent my email to the CEO because I believe that these emails will work. Keep sending them because if we keep sending emails that are well-written and show the logic behind our demand, they will actually listen to us.

dakotakid

Huh, exact same situation. Who would have figured?

My wife wanted to upgrade her phone to what I have, the EnV 3. I purchased it in December - no data package. It's now required for her. We have absolutely no desire to use the web services, and find it ludicrous that they would charge us a monthly fee for a service that we don't use. As stated above, I'm not charged for the calculator, calendar, alarm clock, etc, etc whether I use them or not. They're features that come with the phone. If I want to use the internet services, then by all means charge me a fee to use it. But don't require us to pay a monthly fee for something that we WILL NOT USE.

This is a big enough issue for use that we will be leaving Verizon at the end of our agreement if this issue is not resolved to our satisfaction. Listen up Verizon!

madatvcell

My family and I have been Verizon customers for many years. I have been very pleased with the company's service in all aspects until now. It has come time where we would like to upgrade our phones, but have come to realize that the phones we are interested in have a non-optional $9.99 data plan. We have never and will never have any interest in using our phones as web browsers nor paying for it. I have heard all of the excuses as to why Verizon has decide to do this. We enjoy our level phones because of the ease of texting, camera, video, screen and mp3 qualities. At no point has internet use been the reason we bought these phones and from reading the Verizon forums it seems to be that this feeling is shared with many other Verizon customers. I would like to pose a question to you. If you were looking to upgrade a laptop and you found one with all the options you wanted but were forced to pay for a monthly service such as a specific web service or data back up plan that you did not use or need before or now. Would you pay for it? Would you downgrade to a lower end laptop that did not meet your needs? Or would you go somewhere else that did not require these unnecessary options. Well needless to say we will be looking elsewhere. This a subversive way of increasing you rates without coming out and saying and hiding behind a data plan. If Verizon changes this new policy I would gladly remain a customer, but as of now I am considering another cell phone company that is customizable to its individual customers needs as Verizon once was.

Respectfully,
XXXXXXXXXX

Sent this to CEO will post if I get any type of response.

davey

What a joke to be forced to buy a data plan with the upgrade. The phones they are offering without the data plan are no upgrade. I am seriously going to look for other carriers with unlimited text. I have been with verizon for a long time and have really passed the word that they had great service, now i am sure to pass the word with this ridiculous fee. The $10 only gets you 25mb, what's that 2 emails for 10 bucks a month, i am so done....

ryberlin

Krafft34, your car anology is incorrect. What the moble phone companies are doing is more like GM saying that since every car they make comes standard with OnStar and XM that you are required to pay for these services. In reality, GM offers these for free for a month and lets you choose wether you want to continue subscribing to them. If Verizon were in charge of GM they would make it so that if you didn't use OnStar or XM and canceled your subscription, they would disable your car.

Me and my wife have had a Q9c and a Centro with no data plan for over two years now. We've never had the need or desire to go online with them. I was hoping to upgrade to a Droid but won't because of this new policy.

If you[edit] think spending $720 (per phone!) over the course of two years for the convieniance of checking your email, it's your money. I spend less than that for actual internet. Once my wife's contract is up I'm leaving Verizon if this policy is still in place. If every other carrier is still doing the same, I'm washing my hands of if and going prepaid.

I'm emailing the CEO because there seems to be no other way to express to Verizon my dissatisfaction if customer service has been instructed to ignore my complaints.

{please keep your posts courteous}

Gb755c

Those that are complaining about being "Forced" to choose a data plan I personally see a trend like this starting for ALL the wireless carriers that offer smartphones. The Apple iPhone is this way and I wouldn't be surprised if Sprint and AT&T start doing it for ALL their smartphones. Only choices you have are 1 don't buy a cell phone and 2 don't buy a smartphone.

dudleydawson

^ Alias 2 and enV3 are NOT smart phones

kissingsunshine

I will be contacting their complaint department and I recommend anyone who feels like this is a way to strong-arm customers to pay for coverage we dont want or need - to contact them also!

3400 Forest Dr

Columbia SC, 29204

alepata

Yea everybody has forced people to get data plans for smartphones NOT multimedia phones! They are different. Smartphones always come with a required $30 data plan but not the other phones that now have a required $9.99 data plan!

TDKlee

Ok people pay attention this is soooo simple. It is called money. You know how most business strive to make a fair profit by the services that they offer? well this is an example of business wanting more than that. Just like the banks in recent histroy.

Think about it, just a short time ago Verizon lowered the price of the unlimited talk to $69.99 right, well that is a loss of revenue = to $30.00 per customer that had that plan, excuse me that is not a loss of revenue it is just not as much revenue as before because we all know that Verizon is still making more than a fare profit even with the lower price. Whoever....business 101; nothing is free so... now that they dropped the price of "unlimited Voice Plans" they are requiring data package to recover the money they are not makeing by lowering the price of Voice plans. So as long as customers continue to do business with these business they will continue to do business in such a manner. "HEY LOOK AT US! WE JUST LOWERED OUR PRICE ON UNLIMITED VOICE PLANS $30.00 PER MONTH" they just don't tell you that when you renew your contract or upgrade your phone or just a new customer that they require you to pay for a "data" package to make up for the 30.00 your saving on "Voice".

It's the same as in retail... for example you get a 10, 15, 25% (or what ever amount) Cupon the store does not tell you that these sales are planed anywhere from 2 weeks to at least 1 month in advance so when they price these items during the sale they just mark those items up as not to take such a hit from the cupon.

boosted4life

I agree it is for money. But they don't realize they are going to lose a huge number of customers if they leave this in action. I will be sending an e-mail shortly.

jf1219

We just switched to Verizon after 4 years of being loyal customers to Hargray wireless because they were bought by Cricket wireless and there are advantages of having a contract and we wanted better reception everywhere so we made the change and bought this 9.99 data plan to go with the 3g phone, 25mb but the problem is you use those 25mb in just a few days of keeping up with facebook and email. I don't use mine much, it was quickly exceeded. The fact that they charge 29.99 for the unlimited is ridiculous. I pay 19.99 for high speed internet in my HOUSE! Your pricing is ridiculous. We are cancelling our contract. Someone dropped the ball on this one and SPRINT is picking it up. I will say Verizon does have the best reception, and were it not for this 1 thing we'd have stayed with Verizon for a long time.

lisak138

My boyfriend and I decided to upgrade to the Env3 phones and we are very disappointed in Verizon for forcing us to pay for a service we have no use for. We love the phones, but I really don't need to use the internet that badly. I didn't use it on my last phone which I could have but I didn't need it. What has happened to our Free country, Free choice.

My niece purchased hers in December and did not have to get the Data Plan, we purchased ours in January 3 days after they changed it to mandatory. We have been loyal and satisfied customers for 5 years, we should not have to be charged for this. When my boyfriend asked the salesman what he is supposed to do to keep his daughter from using the data plan, he told him there is a way to block it. Duh!! Why pay for something you have to block from your phone.

I am so displeased right now!!!!!!!!!!!!! Something needs to change before they lose all of there customers.

theanaheimguy

I have been a Verizon Customer for over 12 Years. I pay for 4 Phone Lines per month. If they want me to start paying for something that I do not wish to use I will take my business elsware. We have choices. They may want to force us into paying for services that we do not wish to have; we can choose to go elseware. Sprint has Pretty Much these same services for far less dollars per month. They have free cell to cell service reguardless of carrier. Who needs Verizon?

The answers that this CEO has Given is a clear example of his/her arrogance. The answers are from someone who wants things their way. Someone who says that they are listening, but really is just trying to think of the words needed to get you to buy what they are selling. It speaks volumes as to how out of touch with the changing market he/she is. Look at what is happeing with Television and how much money they are not making anymore because they have had the same arrogant, aloof and will tell their customers what they will want and when they will want it attitude.

People can and will vote with their feet. People that are forced to pay these extra monies will be leaving as soon as they get the chance. Some will even vote with their fleeing feet even if it costs them the "fees" that they are going to be charged for leaving early.

Jeanne22

Could someone give me that email address for the CEO? We have been Verizon customers for over 10 years but this requirement for the data plan is just ridiculous! If something doesn't change, we'll be looking elsewhere for service!

foxtrotj9

Alright guys here is the secret to avoid data plans. I have been with Verizon/Alltel for years, and I have not been in a contract since 05. I am not even sure if my current plan is still around. Whenever I think about upgrading my phone, I never do it with Verizon, I get my phone off Ebay and switch it over via the internet without talking to no one or renewing my contract. Back in 04 I had some LG flip phone then I upgraded to the Motorola Q in when it came out and was charged with a data plan. When my contract was up I "Downgraded" back to the LG for voice only and cancelled the data plan. Since I had no contract I was month to month (Still am). I then upgraded back to the Q and only pay for the voice plan no data. When I used data it would just come out of minutes. Over the next couple of years I bought a blackberry and changed phones via internet and still no data plan but able to download and surf the next at my pleasure. I just made sure to download emails at certain times like after 9 or only on the weekends. In the 2nd week of November, I got the droid off eBay (415 bucks). Still no data or contract, only voice and I make sure no apps access the internet during the week also. I still only pay for voice. The funny about is that I keep getting sales calls to update my phone even though I have the droid. I think it is because I am have not been on contract since God know when. I absolutely refuse to pay 30 bucks a month for phone internet. I pay 20 bucks for wireless internet at home. No Way. I feel sorry for you all stuck in those contracts. I will send an email to the CEO also. That is flat out unfair. Good luck to you all.

goenmo

Look guys, I agree wholeheartedly with your sentiment regarding the issue. I rarely use my 3G either and mostly use my WiFi at home or elsewhere.

The thing is, far more people who buy smartphones DO use the internet abilities, than don't. And most people are sheep when it comes to the "in/ popular" thing. Most of us know darn well that the $300 North Face coat is not really any better at keeping us warm than the $50 Wal Mart knock off, but we want that NF anyway "cuz it's cool." I am sure Verizon is selling oooodles of Droid, Eris, and other smartphones despite the $30 internet fee. From a customer service standpoint, there would be much more fallout (and carrier switching) from 3 million people arguing about their $600 a month in overages, than they ever get from the extra connection fee.

The bottom line is that most of the vocal minority of us who complain, moan and write nasty letters to the CEO, will eventually just suck it up, realize that the competition is no better (worse coverage, dropped calls, similar fees, etc), pay the fee and go away. And Verizon will continue gaining subscribers and making money.

If they were losing money they would care. They are not, so they don't. End of story.

CellTalker

goenmo,

It is the sheep-like attitudes of people like you that will prevent anything from changing. In case you weren't aware, this really isn't about the Droids and Blackberries and high end smartphone devices. It is the millions of us that have Env3, Env Touch, Chocoate Touch, LG 8360, etc. that are now in the Verizon-created category of 3G multimedia phones for which they are now requiring the $9.99 25MB data plan. Even if these phones were capable of providing a good internet or data experience (which most aren't) the 25MB will last about 3 days or less of normal use like Facebook, Twitter, downloads, etc. So, whether you realize it or not yet, this isn't a $9.99 extortion, it is with the full intent of moving everyone who accepts it to $29.99 as quickly as possible once they realize they have agreed to a pittance of access or overage charges that far exceed $30. The sheeple like you that are willing to "suck it up" get what you deserve. If my 5 lines weren't locked in for 2 years I'd leave today whether in spite of those things you seem to believe are factual about the competition. Just because you drank the koolaid doesn't mean the rest of us are going to. If they don't change this I am leaving. Period. Until then, I will continue to live in the vocal minority and will move my lines one at a time as they are off of contract. I will never again be the Net Promoter I once was for Verizon but if they reconsider this extortion, I will stay with them. Meanwhle, my "to do" list remains:

{edit}

bobsuruncle

Yup...I'll be leaving also. If I were to re-up on my two lines with similar multi-media phones and keeping my current 700 min/mo shared plan, we'd have to pay a minimum of $20 more a month.

I'm not gonna do it.

There are plenty of other carriers, and if their plans don't suit me,

I didn't even own a mobile phone until 1998, I'm sure I'll get by without one again! It might just bring a little peace and quiet into my life. :smileyvery-happy:

oldputter

goenmo

I really can't add much except my agreement with CellTalker's reply to your sheepish comments. Although I am sure Verizon expected some fallout from this mandatory data decision I expect they are getting more than they planned for and most of the people whose comments I have seen are not going to " just suck it up, realize that the competition is no better (worse coverage, dropped calls, similar fees, etc), pay the fee and go away" as you suggest. I believe they are simply going to go away if Verizon doesn't listen to reason.

CellTalker

Just for clarification, the petition link is only for the Smartphone and PDA data plans, not the 3G Multimedia mandatory data unless I misread it. If I did, please correct me.

goenmo

Don't get me wrong. I hate the extortion. I hate having to pay $2.50 for a gallon of gas, and watch my electricity, gas, and cable bills increase each month. I hate the fact that these people have such control on our lives.

Write your governor! Write Congress! Write the FCC! Do all that and more. I hope and pray and wish you great sucess.

Down with mandatory Internet connection fees!

But I am also a realist and know that there are far more poeple seriously upset about healthcare and insurance premiums than their cell phone bill, and you can see how far they have gotten with that thus far.

Marshwiggle

I am also another very unhappy customer about being forced to purchase a data plan in order to upgrade to the phone I would like... the data features on the phones are not the only things that are different on the multimedia phones, from the simple-feature phones... the cameras are not as good either... and the phones I already have on my account are better than the ones listed in the "simple-feature" section, so how is that an UPgrade? it isn't, it is a DOWNgrade....

This is just a scam to get customers to spend an extra $9.99 per month, PER phone... if it weren't, the choices of non-data phones would be just as good as the multimedia phones...

I have spoken with Verizon, sent them an email, and a letter to their corporate office... I plan on canceling my contract asap, if this is not changed... either doing away with the mandate on the data service, or providing better choices of phones for those who don't want it....

CellTalker

goenmo wrote:
Don't get me wrong. I hate the extortion. I hate having to pay $2.50 for a gallon of gas, and watch my electricity, gas, and cable bills increase each month. I hate the fact that these people have such control on our lives.

But I am also a realist and know that there are far more poeple seriously upset about healthcare and insurance premiums than their cell phone bill, and you can see how far they have gotten with that thus far.

Yes I can, I watched them vote in a Republican in Massachusetts to replace the biggest promoter of socialized medicine in history which killed an effort to cram and ramrod the wrong healthcare reform bill down American throats.

I suppose you would also be okay if the gas station not only charged you $2.50 but also made you buy 20 gallons every fillup, whether you wanted it, needed it, could afford it, or even had room for it?

I supposed you'd be okay if your cable company sent you an "exciting" notice that starting next month you will be billed a mandatory $10 for HBO because you have a cable box capable of receiving it? Oh, and if you watch more than 3 movies you will be billed extra so you probably should just get the $30 all-you-can-eat plan. Your option is to return all of your cable boxes and quit receiving the HD signals you've been getting and keep basic SD channel cable because if you aren't subscribing to HBO then you certainly don't need any of the other features of a DVR or cable box. Your cable company tells you they are doing this because too many people were complaining about accidentially hitting the "movie" button and not cancelling out of it before 10 seconds and getting billed for a full movie. They will also tell you that too many people watched more pay per view movies than they could afford and called up complaining that their bill was too high and to pacifiy them, had to refund a lot of money that was coincidentally, all profit. For the good of everyone except you, they are implementing this mandatory HBO fee.

Why won't your cable company do this? They WON'T do it for the exact opposite reason that Verizon is doing it. You have one important choice that Verizon doesn't give us. You can walk away from your cable provider without a huge penalty, probably none at all. They know you would walk so they have to work to keep customers happy.

And, please, stop with all of the propaganda about superior service, reception, and all that other nonsense. That is not true for everyone and much of it is not true at all anymore except in the big red TV propaganda machine. I am smart enough to make the best decision for me and my family on my own and will live with the consequences of my CHOICE.

{edit}

goenmo

Oldputter and CellTalker,

For the record, I made my displeasure known to customer service, and the management of my local store, when i bought my new phone in December. I continue to speak the truth to power when I can. This fee is WRONG!

But I, like most people, need/want my phone. I love my phone and all it can do. And despite my displeasure, and as you say the displeasure of many other people, I DID buy the phone. And most people, I am sorry to say, will not, or can not simply walk away from Verizon over this. All my friends who have a smartphone grumble about the fee, but how many will leave Verizon over it? So far 0, zero, zed. Like it or not Verizon is the best of many evils. My choices are limited:

Buy a dumb phone and save my money. Buy an iPod Touch for my multimedia needs
Buy a multimedia device I like from Verizon and pay the fee.
Leave Verizon and move to another service where I get less coverage, more dropped calls, worse phones, or all of the above.

I chose #2

The point is that option 1 is available to everyone, but most people will not take it. They want an all in one device, and despite the cost, despite the grumbling, they will pay.

Most people will NOT leave Verizon over this for the same reason they pay for 100 extra channels of TV and watch maybe 3 of them. We should be able to get Sy Fy without having to spend $30 extra a month for the rest of the digital tier too. But are they going to leave their cable provider over it? A few might, but most won't because the alternative is to pay the same extra $30 to DirectTV or ATT Uverse, each with their own issues, or do without altogether.

Capitalism 101: What most people will pay, business will charge.

AngelofromTX

I agree with those people that object to be forced to buy something we do not need. We have the right to use our phone in the way we want, not in the way the provider wants us to use it.

Also it is right to contact the CEO because many times dealing with people without any autority to make decisions it is a waste of time.

I preffer to deal with the chief or a decision maker rather than an order followers. Many times the CEO's doe not know what goiing on in the company.

mad71

I upgraded my cell phone to an Env3. When I upgraded I was not told about the data package. I did not know it was even on my plan until I called Verizon Customer Service with a question I had. That's when I was told the data package was on my new phone. I told them I did not want the data plan and I was told that I had to have it. I argued with them about the plan and they told me if I didn't want to pay for the plan to return the Env3 and get another phone. I have been a customer with Verizon for over 12 years and I have the family share plan with four phones on it. I think a customer should be able to pick the phone they want without having a data plan shoved down their throat. My sister and my niece have the same phone and they were not forced to have a data plan. When I asked Verizon why they told me that the data plan was something new that they just started. It is very unfair that some people are forced to have a data plan and some are not when they have the very same phone. I commend everyone who sent an e-mail to the CEO but I don't think that is going to help alot. I filed a complaint with the Federal Communications Commission. If the rest of you that have been forced to buy a data plan that you did not want or need will file a complaint too I think we will stand a better chance of getting something done.

fordsman00

I to am looking at other providers after more than 10 years with Verizon. I get less services every time I renew. Don't like what Verizon is doing. Data was charged to talk time. Now forced to block data. Verizon should offer these in same package. In other words Get More for Less.

tiffini128

I am Not happy about the new data plans being mandatory!!!! They tell me this is because it is the best for m y phone. Seriously? You think I can only ‘best’ use my LG Env 3 by accessing the internet? Let me assure you that I have been ‘best’ using my ENv 3 since the day I purchased it without internet coverage. This was over a year ago!!! And I am happy with its performance. I have great call reception, battery life, the keyboard is user friendly, the calculator is extremely handy, the alarm clock is the easiest to set and use of any I have ever had, the display large and terrific, the camera shoots great photos, I like the calendar setup..... Who is verizon to suggest that I am not getting the best use I can from my phone because I do not want, need, or have internet coverage? the internet coverage should be optional not mandatory! WHAT TO DO???????

kylek14

tiffani,

It's not the case, Im pretty sure the verizon reps were told to say that.

Earlier this year or late last year, verizon had a lawsuit against them about the $1.99 MB data charges (that my mom flipped about on the bill every month, even though internet was blocked, it still turned up on the bill)

My guess would be that this is their "quick fix" in order to avoid any serious blows to the company. Dont get me wrong, I'm not trying to defend VZW, in fact I'm kind of annoyed because I was due for an upgrade in december, and my dad kept putting it off, and when he finally decided to get my phone, they needed a data plan, so I'm still stuck with my original EnV (which needs to charge externally and has multiple problems).

They are probably working out some sort of solution as we speak (my hope is the agreement to BLOCK DATA in order to have the phone) my parents blocked data and i could still get picture messages (there were some duds, but it's ok. just ask them to resend the msg) and IMs and whatnot, so they cant tell you that you wouldn't be able to text without data.

oldputter

I just got off the phone with a representative from Executive Relations at Verizon about an hour or so ago. I spent about 20 minutes on the phone with her. I plan to put my notes and some direct quotes in the Discussions section of Say No to the Verizon Wireless Data Dictatorship page at http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=257808747739&ref=mf a little later so if you are interested you can go there.

Here are a couple of highlights. Her words are in quotes.

"We have not heard anything from the President himself as far as the data packages go. They are staying in place as of now."

Data Plan Removal - If a phone purchased prior to 01/18/10 (before it before it needed a data plan to work correctly), is replaced under warranty or insurance, if it does have a data plan added it should be removed by Verizon. "We can override the system to get that data plan removed." Other than that, "Absolutely not. The data plan will not be removed for those phones."

This was my second call from Executive relations as I sent my second email and letter on Monday. I wanted to get some kind of feel as to what may have changed in the two weeks since my last conversation. If anything, they have been getting practice as their responses are well rehearsed. Unfortunately I was not encouraged about any changes coming soon.

oldputter

oldputter wrote:
I just got off the phone with a representative from Executive Relations at Verizon about an hour or so ago. I spent about 20 minutes on the phone with her. I plan to put my notes and some direct quotes in the Discussions section of Say No to the Verizon Wireless Data Dictatorship page at http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=257808747739&ref=mf a little later so if you are interested you can go there.

Here are a couple of highlights. Her words are in quotes.

"We have not heard anything from the President himself as far as the data packages go. They are staying in place as of now."

Data Plan Removal - If a phone purchased prior to 01/18/10 (before it before it needed a data plan to work correctly), is replaced under warranty or insurance, if it does have a data plan added it should be removed by Verizon. "We can override the system to get that data plan removed." Other than that, "Absolutely not. The data plan will not be removed for those phones."

This was my second call from Executive relations as I sent my second email and letter on Monday. I wanted to get some kind of feel as to what may have changed in the two weeks since my last conversation. If anything, they have been getting practice as their responses are well rehearsed. Unfortunately I was not encouraged about any changes coming soon.

If you want to see more details and quotes from my call you can see that here...

Info you have recieved from Verizon when you called or e-mailed

http://www.facebook.com/topic.php?uid=257808747739&topic=13096

CellTalker

oldputter wrote:
Data Plan Removal - If a phone purchased prior to 01/18/10 (before it before it needed a data plan to work correctly), is replaced under warranty or insurance, if it does have a data plan added it should be removed by Verizon. "We can override the system to get that data plan removed." Other than that, "Absolutely not. The data plan will not be removed for those phones."

If you want to see more details and quotes from my call you can see that here...

Info you have recieved from Verizon when you called or e-mailed
http://www.facebook.com/topic.php?uid=257808747739&topic=13096

Since her entire response was the same tired lines of bee with an ess, why would anyone believe the ONE positive thing she said about removing the data plan from a replacement phone? Wait, you mean it can be done? But, but, but...that wouldn mean all of those lemmings have been lying.

Next week's training desk drop to all Sales and Customer Service will likely say: "In order to make customers feel better, stop saying 'there is nothing I can do' and start saying 'there is nothing I am allowed to do'. Failure to do so can result in discipline up to and including termination". Using Verizon's logic, their employees DO have a choice on what to say.

goenmo

I hava an Eris, which has WiFi. Most of the time i somewhere that has WiFi access. This mandatory data plan thing is **bleep**. People should have an option! I wish I could get a data block on my account and avoid the $30 monthly fee, but i doubt this will ever happen.

The problem is Verizon just makes too much money on this mandatory thing to really care about a few of us whining. I believe at last count there were ~700 members of the facebook page? Verizon has 86.5 MILLION customers. Do you really think they care about 700 whiners, most of which will do nothing but whine and keep paying their monthly bills anyway? Sad to say, most people will not vote with thier feet.

Most consumers are sheep. They want their multimedia internet enabled devices. Most people who have an EN V will use it for internet , or VZ Navigator, or keeping up with emails, tweets, and facebook. So for them them the $10 makes sense so they will not get $500 bills each month. The rest? They want the extensive network. Most of thier friends are on Verizon and they get free IN calling/texting. They might complain about the fee, but most will just keep paying it because they really WANT a new phone or realize the alternatives from other carriers are just not better for them (less coverage, less friends, not the right phones, etc).

Sorry guys. Keep up the pressure. Keep calling and writing. But i think we are a looong way from the critical mass needed for Verizon to really give a sheet.

chefD

I owned a LG env2 and the front screen went blank so I go in to get a new one. Well they now have the LG envy touch which I was very interested in. I was informed that I HAD to purchase the internet for $9.99 a month. I told the very nice customer service rep. that I did not want or ever use the internet or want to get my email on my phone. Guess what; you don't have a choice any more on most phones. Verizon, as of two weeks ago requires everyone who purchases a "smartphone" have the internet but they are also going to charge you an additional $9.99 per phone charge. How wonderful. So as I explained to the customer rep. I did not want the internet, she showed me the very small wall of about 5 phones that I could purchase without internet. So I don't have the new touch Lg envy .WOW! What a slap in the face, being forced to purchase something that I don't want or need, sounds kinda socialist. Like our government shoving the health care bill down our throats. Well, we see the outcome of that and what is slowly happening to the democrats; one by one, bye bye. The people spoke, and the bill was stopped. Hopefully that will happen with this pill of crap plan to force everyone to have the internet on their phones and pay for it. Thanks but no thanks.

ctheath

I fully agree with most of these peoples complaints. My husband wanted to get a new phone when I upgraded to the Droid. I understand I had to have a data package but he just wanted the Env 3. He doesn't do anything but call and text. He would just like a new phone. It's really chicken S&^T of Verizon to do this because they want more MONEY. So my husband just stayed with his old phone. So Verizon lost business with my husband not spending money on a new phone because of a data charge. How **bleep**!!!!! The CEO's response to this question multiple times is don't buy a ferrari well not all of us need every option available but still want a nice car. Been with Verizon several years but we are very disappointed with verizon now. But I have a suggestion just have a piece of paper people sign that they have a option of the data package and if they choose they don't want it. So if they get data charges verizon can just say "Hey you signed the paper stating you did not want the package". But I just wanted to voice my protest with the new Verizon. Just two words for Verizon"GO BACK".

goenmo

From the Q4 Verizon Financial statement of January 26th 2010:

Wireless

2.2 million total net customer additions, excluding acquisitions and adjustments, in 4Q 2009; 1.2 million retail net customer additions in quarter; 87.5 million retail customers, up 25 percent from year-end 2008; 91.2 million total customers, up 26.6 percent from year-end 2008.
22.5 percent increase in total revenues from 4Q 2008; continued low retail postpaid churn, 1.06 percent; data revenues up 45.9 percent; 27.3 percent operating income margin and 45.0 percent EBITDA margin on service revenues (non-GAAP).

This occurred with people knowing about the mandatory fees when buying all those plans for Christmas. Until this changes---- which it does't look like it will------

There will be no change in policy.

pmcd1962

goenmo wrote:
From the Q4 Verizon Financial statement of January 26th 2010:

Wireless
2.2 million total net customer additions, excluding acquisitions and adjustments, in 4Q 2009; 1.2 million retail net customer additions in quarter; 87.5 million retail customers, up 25 percent from year-end 2008; 91.2 million total customers, up 26.6 percent from year-end 2008.
22.5 percent increase in total revenues from 4Q 2008; continued low retail postpaid churn, 1.06 percent; data revenues up 45.9 percent; 27.3 percent operating income margin and 45.0 percent EBITDA margin on service revenues (non-GAAP).

This occurred with people knowing about the mandatory fees when buying all those plans for Christmas. Until this changes---- which it does't look like it will------

There will be no change in policy.

How did people know at Christmas about the change Jan 18th? The first and second quarter numbers of FY2010 will be more telling.

oldputter

pmcd1962 wrote:
goenmo wrote:
From the Q4 Verizon Financial statement of January 26th 2010:

Wireless
2.2 million total net customer additions, excluding acquisitions and adjustments, in 4Q 2009; 1.2 million retail net customer additions in quarter; 87.5 million retail customers, up 25 percent from year-end 2008; 91.2 million total customers, up 26.6 percent from year-end 2008.
22.5 percent increase in total revenues from 4Q 2008; continued low retail postpaid churn, 1.06 percent; data revenues up 45.9 percent; 27.3 percent operating income margin and 45.0 percent EBITDA margin on service revenues (non-GAAP).

This occurred with people knowing about the mandatory fees when buying all those plans for Christmas. Until this changes---- which it does't look like it will------

There will be no change in policy.
How did people know at Christmas about the change Jan 18th? The first and second quarter numbers of FY2010 will be more telling.

Good points and if you will remember, 2008 was not a very good year for anyone so all of the 2009 numbers when compared to 2008 should look pretty good.

goenmo

I was told in early December when my contract came up that several of the phones including Samsung Rogue currently, and most of the multimedia phones would soon require the data package. I chose the Eris because I figured if I was going to have to pay for a data package anyway, I might as well get a full featured phone. The final decision may have gone into effect Jan 18th, but it was known before Christmas that this would occur. The smartphones have had a mandatory data fee for some time now and it does not seem to have hampered sales of Eris and Droid phones much.

As I said, the vast majority of people who have multimedia phones like the EN V, Chocolate, and Alias had data plans anyway because they use them as internet devices. So for them the fee is pretty much the same as they always paid. In fact most of them probably had the higher cost plans because 25MB was too little and they frequently went over and got charged $100 for usage fees. I agree that making it mandatory is silly and draconian, but I suspect that there are now far less people truly irate about the new fee than there were before about getting an unexpected phone bill because they left YouTube on for too long one day.

I can only judge by my friends (I'm a 39yo guy) that most of them have either multimedia or smartphones and nearly all of them use it's internet or data abilites at least a few times a week. Many of them have kids who also use them for this purpose. They hate having one more internet fee, but recognize that they do use it and would rather pay $10 a month than accidentally pay $100 extra because of using too much data.

You are all rightfully indignant at having to pay this fee for a service you do not use! But the reality is that despite prior knowledge of this fee coming, most people still renewed their contracts or purchased new phones that they knew were going to require a data plan of some type. Most people don't care. And those that do might grumble to customer service, but most will stay with Verizon and grudgingly pay the fee, because for whatever reason, they still feel that Verizon is better than the alternatives.

SBAPMOM

I am apparently just one more person who is disgusted by the fact that this data plan needs to be purchased. Yes, I did agree to it, and that is my oversight. I am biting the bullet, paying the $35 restocking fee, and exchanging it for another. If I didn't have multiple other phones on this acct, I would switch from Verizon in a heartbeat. What a rip off...... I am really disappointed and what's worse is when I went into my local store to ask about this, I got lambasted by the sales clerk for making this purchase on line... I finished the conversation by asking him who the customer was....

Ed_from_PA wrote:
Like so many on here, I too do not think we should be forced to purchase a Data Plan.

I have contacted C S but have had no satisfaction. I have also Google the " Verizon wireless CEO" his name is Lowell McAdam, President and CEO. At the bottom of the page after googling him there is a spot that says contact him so I did. Today I got a call from a lady at the Corporate office. so they did get the E-mail. Was informed that they have received many concerns. but it did not sound like any changes were in the works. Maybe if they get enough dissatisfied customers they will correct things. After all we are the customers and without us they will not have a company.

pajlex

Ed_from_PA wrote:
Like so many on here, I too do not think we should be forced to purchase a Data Plan.

I have contacted C S but have had no satisfaction. I have also Google the " Verizon wireless CEO" his name is Lowell McAdam, President and CEO. At the bottom of the page after googling him there is a spot that says contact him so I did. Today I got a call from a lady at the Corporate office. so they did get the E-mail. Was informed that they have received many concerns. but it did not sound like any changes were in the works. Maybe if they get enough dissatisfied customers they will correct things. After all we are the customers and without us they will not have a company.

I too agree that it is outrageous that we are forced to pay for services we will not use. I started with Verizon Wireless a few years ago using a Razor V3m. Wonderful phone! The next year I upgrade to the first generation Envey. Another great phone, even though I was charged $10.00 for the Internet which I used. In 2008 I purchased a Blackberry Storm and got one free. Another great promotion. Unfortunately, I became unemployed early 2009 so I went to remove features from my family plan. Apparently if you have a Blackberry, you are not allowed to use it as a phone only. You have to pay the Blackberry service charge or get another phone. Lost $99.00 because of this policy. I even explained my situation and the representative was pretty much stuck on their policy. All I wanted was for them to stop the Internet service and allow me to use the phone I purchased. It was pointless to explain this. When told I would change to another provider, the representative told me,abruptly, NO you don't want to do that. As if they were going to throw all sorts of early termination fees at me, plus the month I owed. Apparently, they didn't care, like they use to if they loose a loyal customer. Fortunately I had my old Razor in storage and activated that instead with no additional charge. Otherwise, I would of had no phone on top of my situation.

I use to brag about the exemplary customer service and great package deals Verizon had but, not anymore. They have lost the personal touch by their lack of sympathy towards their customers and branching out with the Authorized Verizon Wireless stores. Apparently the Authorized stores are constantly battling with the main stores and provide the sloppiest services I've ever experienced. That's another story though.

Continue your quest to get this forced data charge eliminated. And perhaps they will finally straighten their act up and realize that Corporations are built with the money from US the CUSTOMER.

ham10814

I emailed the CEO of Verizon and recieved a phone call 2 days later from some representative from his office. In a nut shell, she was still trying to sell me on their scam of a data plan and the crappy phones I had to chose from that didn't require the data plan. I basically told her, to read the blogs on this website and if they continue these practices they will be losing alot of customers. Do they care????

Marshwiggle

Contact your local news media... If Verizon won't listen, at least we can inform people what is going on, particularly Verizon customers who do not know about this new policy....so they know BEFORE they renew their contracts...

auntevie

Goenmo:

First, Where did you get the statistic that 99% of us want to use the internet on our phones? Even if you were right, how many of those 99% can AFFORD the internet?

Second, What about the existing customers prior to 1-15 that are now being FORCED to purchase this mandatory data plan. I pay 189.96 not including taxes, fees, ect for 5 phones on a 2100 minute plan, unlimited text. 4 of these phones are 3G multimedia phones. The internet is blocked on these phones but we LOVE the other features they offer. If I wanted the internet I would have no problem paying for this added option. However, when I went to upgrade, I was told I HAD to chose lesser quality phones to upgrade to or pay the MINIMUM 9.99 per phone to get the same or better quality phone we now have. Why would I HAVE to pay for something I dont want and have never used??? For the life of me, I can not understand why you dont see this. NO ONE is expecting the internet for free. But they shouldnt HAVE to pay for an option they dont want and can be blocked??

Verizon stated that they lowered their prices. Then why if I wanted to DECREASE my plan to 1400 minutes and also upgraded (?) all my phones to 3G capable phones (not smart phones) would I be paying AT LEAST 9.99 MORE per month.

Less minutes and same quality phones =higher bill. REDICULOUS!!!

Verizon should have grandfathered this mandatory price/data plan.

Lastly, you essentially said that people wont switch because they want the great coverage Verizon offers. I have been very happy with Verizon's service. However, my daughter has ATT and honestly I dont see any difference in quality/coverage at ALL. I stayed with Verizon because I thought they had great customer service and they have met my needs. But unless Verizon rescinds this mandatory data plan by June 2nd when my contract ends, I will not renew my contract.

auntevie

gornmo:

You wrote:" This occurred with people knowing about the mandatory fees when buying all those plans for Christmas. Until this changes---- which it does't look like it will------

There will be no change in policy."

I never received any information about this change in policy. From reading this board, it seems that many learned of the policy changes when they went to upgrade their phones after 1-15. Also, if you bought a phone BEFORE 1-15 and thus at Christmas, the data plans on 3G multimedia phones were OPTIONAL and internet could be blocked if needed. ONLY the smart phones had this mandatory data plan.

Stew-2

That is also what I did. I filed a complaint with the FCC and BBB as well as emailed several of the VPs and CEO

http://www.bbb.org/

http://esupport.fcc.gov/complaints.htm

http://aboutus.vzw.com/leadership/executive/index.html

If you are as upset about this as I am, you need to let them all know how you feel.

Update: I've also filed a complaint with the FTC

https://www.ftccomplaintassistant.gov/

Kanar38

I thought I lived in America where choice is king, I guess Verizon wireless is not American born. I want to choose what features I want, I want the ability if I get into a tight for a few months the ability to turn a 30 dollar feature off. I want verizon wireless to change their false TV advertising, now their are only a couple of phones you can add to your plan for 9.99 the rest are alot more. We are getting cheated someone has to do something. Add to facebook, myspace anywhere you can get to alot of people.

I have a Motorola Q and been without Internet access for along time I use my phone for business purposes, connect to my computer to use contact, calendar, word and excel documents. I pay enough for internet everywhere else. Texting on the phone is an ease. I also have tons of music on my phone and listen to it. I download E-books on my computer and transfer to my phone and use the ereader. I DON"T NEED INTERNET ON MY PHONE. so now I have to down grade for corporate greed that is the long and short of it.

Kanar38

you must be someone with plenty of money, I take offense at being told what "features I have to have" I have a motorola Q and havent' used internet on it for months, i use the features of windows for schedulling and other options. Its people like you that defend unjust policies that keep them in place. Stand up for choice because one day the thing you want most won't happen because no one will back you up. You know this is not right it is just corporate greed at its best. How you can even write that in here with good conscience is beyond me. You must be part of verizons executive branch. So thanks for nothing for the common man just trying to do right with his family.

Kanar38

I have a Motorola Q smartphone and until they started this policy I didn't have to have internet and I still don't have it. I don't need it on my phone i use the windows features on the phone in alot of different ways. But I am with you I don't like being forced to buy a feature that I don't use. Whether it be a smartphone or not, there is no reason to tell me I have to do anything. they are controlling my purchasing telling me what i can or can't have. That is wrong.

thanks

oldputter

Marshwiggle wrote:
Contact your local news media... If Verizon won't listen, at least we can inform people what is going on, particularly Verizon customers who do not know about this new policy....so they know BEFORE they renew their contracts...

Yes, please do. Also, if any of you haven't checked out our group yet, take a look at us at http://bit.ly/9S0wOQ and you can find many more who feel the same way you do and are trying to get Verizon's attention. Many people are learning about these changes every day so the discontent with the plan and our group is growing steadily.

Here is the phone number for the Executive Office 1-877-282-0788. Hope it helps

trainer1

I got a phone call from Verizon after I contacted the BBB. Needless to say I didn't get ant where with them. The BBB sent me the reply and asked if I was satisfied or if I wanted to go to arbitration. I opted for the arbirtration. I got a package in the mail yesterday with the paperwork and will be filling that out and going into arbitration on the issue. I am interested to see where it goes.

firemhan

Yesterday I ditched Verizon and paid my $200 ETF to go to Sprint! I walked into a SOuthern California store and was utterly outraged by the increase to my bill after opting to upgrade to 2 blackberry devices. Currently I get a bit of a discount, but my 1400 minutes and unlimited text run close to $125 per month. They wanted to tack on an early upgrade fee, activation fee, and $30 per month per smart phone. 3 lines costing me $215 per month!?!?! **bleep**?!?!, I cancelled immediately!!! (Actually I came home, went to Sprint's website, and activated 3 lines). I was able to get in on the referral program, and my new service is pretty good..., wait, its excellent!!! For all you Sprint haters...Sprint phones use any open source CDMA tower (including VZW) when you're not in their 4G areas. My new plan was activated for free, shipped free, included $200 of rebates, and is $131.08 per month with taxes for 1600 anytime minutes, unlimited text, unlimited M2M, anlimited data, BB use, and web, and Sprint TV is awesome. I was so insulted when I called Verizon customer service to insure my cancellation had went through, and the rep told me it was impossible to get all that for that cheap. I said, "Hey, I'm a firefighter, I do alot of impossible stuff that you can't imagine." and then I hung up.

10 year verizon customer, not a single complaint, never an issue, great network. But sorry Verizon, for me in an urban environment polluted with cell towers and big buildings, this just made economic sense in, too bad youre not experiencing the strain us common folk are. You can have my $200 ETF, I'll make up that difference in 2 months and won't ever have to worry about phantom Data billing (which is an entirely different rant) or beiing called a liar.

ham10814

Received my reply from Verizon on my complaint............Verizon's reasoning was that verizon multimedia phones possess features that require access to data services to be used to their fullest potential. The data plans prevent excessive and unwanted data overages from appearing on customer invoices.

Additionally, VZW offers many simple feature phones for customers, who do not wish to use data services. These devices, which can be viewed at www.verizonwireless.com, do not require data plans.

Verizon is FORCING us to use phones to their fullest potential. What happen to the American way of Choice?? Are we not livng in the 21st century where every American has a CHOICE to choose and pay for what they want and don't want??

Sent additional information for my complaint and will see what BB next step will be. I also will go to arbitration if BB asks me. We live in America home of the FREE!!!

Harley

As to the mysterious 1.99 charges that show up..I was told that if you had data on your phone and downloaded a program and the canceled data service, even going as far as to block it that the program you downloaded is a gateway for updates etc. so inorder for your data block to be effective, you have to uninstall any program that was previously installed. In my sons case, that took care of the mysterious 1.99 charge. that may not be the case with everyone, but it worked for me. As far as the madatory data package goes..its all lies to the consumer to rip us off. No one should be forced to pay for services they don't want. Period. This is america. File a complaint with the FCC.

LiesFrustration

I have been a Verizon customer for more than 15 years and I have completely reached a point of frustration.

I am on the family share plan and I am a mother of 2 teenagers. As a parent I have chosen to block all multi-media access on my children’s phones.

Correct me, if I am wrong, but Verizon new policy is to exploit customer’s that have a multimedia capable phone with a minimum $9.99 minimum monthly access charge. This charge is mandated even if these features are 100% blocked from a child’s phone.

To buy a new phone, my choices are limited because almost all phones (of any quality) have multi-media capability. Even if I buy my phone independently and replace my child’s existing phone, I must still choose an inferior quality phone just to avoid being over-charged $240 (9.99 x 24 mth contract) for service that completely blocked.

WOW! This is remarkably unfair. Please help me understand why this is justified? I think I understand this policy correctly because; I've called customer service and visited the store - it's a mandatory minimum monthly fee. No exceptions even if the service is blocked. I feel no satisfaction in this situation what so ever. This is not a reasonable service policy for parents.

I may intend on investigating my options as a consumer, perhaps with NC Attorney General because fees without services should not be valid.

stillwildhink

I have been a loyal paying customer for many years. But, now I am extremely disappointment with the Verizon company, as are many people. I'm really bothered by Verizons attempt to force people to purchase data packages to get DECENT upgraded phones. In a time of such trying economical difficulties, I find it extremely sleazy that Verizon would attempt to extort money from loyal paying customers. Because in reality, that's exactly what they're doing. They offer only the "junk" phones as an exception to these data requirements. I'm sure Verizons argument to this would be something along the lines of cost recovery for heavily discount phones, or "Multi-media Phones", need this package to operate. Well if that were the case, why did several of these identical phones, that now require data packages to work, not need that same data pack a couple months ago? i.e. And if it is truly about cost recovery, well why not out front charge more for the phones, discount them less. Just because there are features on a particular phone that allow it to do more than a average "Featured Phone", why are you forcing people to purchase additional monthly services? Why can't a customer purchase a Mutli-media phone without being forced to pay for data packages? So really, it would essentially be like saying, since a phone has the capability to send text messages, you have to purchase a text plan even if you will never ever send a text message. That would be ridiculous. As are forced data package services. Why would Verizon force loyal customers to pay for any EXTRAS or services that we don't want and will never use!! It is very sad and disappointing that Verizon would try to take advantage of customers like this. I am so outraged by this half witted attempt to rip us off. Honestly, when I was ready to upgrade my phone, I was going to add an additional package to web browse. But now, after Verizon's impertinent pushiness and grimy persistence, I'd rather eat dirt. I will not be forced to purchase anything, I do not want. I work too hard to have any company dictate to me how I will spend my money. This is bad business on Verizon's part. If anyone could point me in the right direction, as to who I need to contact, (I have tried customer service but they are no help, this policy was not their decision) to try and eradicate this absurd policy, your help would be greatly appreciated. We as are paying customers, need to come together, and protest against Verizons tyranny!!!!

Anti_Tyranny

Stillwildhink,

Try these contacts: http://aboutus.vzw.com/leadership/executive/index.html

This is direct to the President and CEO: http://aboutus.vzw.com/leadership/executive/profiles/Lowell_McAdam.html

At the bottom of the screen select "Contact: Lowell C. McAdam" and it will open a window to send a message direct to him. I am in the same boat as you, having been a long time Verizon customer and I have already informed my friends and family about this horrible scam of a "policy" and advised them to look for another carrier. My contract has been up for a long time now and I refuse to renew my and my wife's contracts and being forced into a plan we have no use for. The second either of our phones stop working we will be moving to another company. I refuse to be forced to purchase a dumb phone that is a step down from the technology our phones have had for years.

I also see this requirement as a potential legal nightmare for Verizon. I would venture to say teenagers are likely the biggest users of the text message feature and many have purchased multimedia phones with keyboards to facilitate the use of this feature. Now in order to have these phones parents will be forced to purchase a data plan for them. While this may seem innocent enough, how many teens and even pre teens will have unsupervised access to the internet? In this day and age I'm sure there is no need for me to further explain the potential for extreme danger that could result. Let’s put the decision making back iinto the customers and parents hands and say no to Verizon's tyranny.

Verizon would have us all believe that their network is so superior to their competitors that we should stick around solely for that reason. One need only watch any of Verizon's commercials where all they constantly cram down our throats pictures of their coverage maps. That an you customer service has helped to set you apart from your competition in the past however other carriers are catching up and any advantage your company had is, in my opinion, severely offset by this new data requirement. At a time when the competition is heating up and in an economy where customers are losing their jobs and looking to reduce their monthly expenses, I have to question Verizon’s commitment to their customers as well as their understanding of the needs and wants of the same. I suggest we all take this time to re-evaluate our needs and look over our plans and compare them closely to the competition. I know I will be …….

aehsahs

Ok, I'm sorry if someone else has already asked this, but my question is if you were AT&T customers would you be as upset about their data requirements? On the same day that Verizon Wireless stated that all 3G Multimedia phones would have to have a $9.99 data package or higher AT&T advised their customer that all of their "Quick Messaging" phones (i.e. keyboard phones) would have to have a $20 package or higher. I understand that everyone here is extremely upset about Verizon Wireless placing package requirements, but I mean it's not like they are the only ones.

Also, I did want to remark about the reference made about pre-teens and teens having a lot of unsupervised access to the internet. First, of course, this may be a little harsh, but shame on the parents. Content filters are FREE and you can place them on your kids' lines to make sure they are viewing age appropriate content. Honestly, I don't have kids, but I have a 13 year old nephew that has an Env Touch (with a $9.99 data package) he doesn't go over the package and I have content filters (plus usage controls, but I don't figure that anyone wants to pay the extra $4.99 to make sure your kids aren't using it during school).

Child Item